A sample of 117 Massachusetts adults with predominately high-level spinal cord injuries (SCIs) report a mean of 6.5 (&#453.0) of 17 secondary conditions in the previous year. Hierarchical multiple regression based on a conceptual framework to examine possible contributing factors shows two independent predictors (P &#104 .05) of a greater number of secondary conditions: These predictors are more difficulty with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and more difficulty with accessing medical care. In addition, three variables marginally predicted (P &#104 0.10) more secondary conditions: inadequate access to transportation, tobacco-smoking, and race (white). The findings highlight the importance of IADL difficulty and access to medical care in relation to secondary conditions among adults with SCI.

disability, secondary conditions, spinal cord injury [complications]
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